Treating Knee Arthritis With Hyaluronic Acid

Knee osteoarthritis can be a painful and disabling problem. Physiatrists are highly trained in cutting edge, non-surgical treatments based on the latest medical information available. Some physiatrists are involved in ongoing research on hyaluronic acid used in conjunction with exercise to relieve arthritis pain.

Studies show:

• Hyaluronic acid is an important part of normal knee joint fluid

• Hyaluronic acid plays a role in joint protection and lubrication

• Individuals suffering from osteoarthritis have less hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid in their joints leading to poor joint lubrication and increased pain

• Numerous studies have found injectable hyaluronic acid to be safe in humans and effective in decreasing pain and improving function
   

What you should know:

• Injectable hyaluronic acid is available from multiple companies and marketed under different names including Hyalgan, Orthovisc, Supartz, and Synvisc

• Hyaluronic acid injections are currently approved for osteoarthritis of the knees, and are done in a series of three to five injections depending on the brand used

• When treatment is considered, a doctor must take a patient’s medical history and medication side effects into consideration

• Individuals allergic to eggs and/or feathers cannot have these injections

• Hyaluronic acid injections are being studied in other joints including the hips and shoulders

What you can do:

• A physical medicine and rehabilitation physician (physiatrist) who is an expert in non-surgical management of knee osteoarthritis can evaluate you

• Check with your local physiatrist on the latest treatments available

• Knee osteoarthritis should be managed with a comprehensive program including:

  • Oral and injectible medications as needed

  • Regular low impact exercise, with stretching and strengthening exercises of the lower limbs

  • Weight reduction in overweight individuals